Srinagar, May 08: Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, Srinagar on Friday successfully conducted its first-ever Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey towards advanced and patient-centric medical care.
The minimally invasive surgical procedure, used to remove a diseased or stone-filled gallbladder, was successfully performed in the Department of General and Minimal Access Surgery at the KMCH.
The operation involved the services of Anaesthesiology team led by valley famous anaesthetist Dr Basharat and his team. The surgical team consisted of Dr Sheikh Sajad, Professor and Head, Department of Surgery, along with Dr Azhar Associate Professor, Dr Zahid Assistant Professor of the department and OT supporting staff.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sheikh Sajad described the development as a major step forward not only for KMCH but for the overall healthcare sector of the region.
“This is a positive and encouraging development for the people. The introduction of laparoscopic surgeries at KMCH will strengthen the healthcare system and help reduce the burden on government hospitals. We are committed to standing shoulder to shoulder in delivering quality patient care services,” he said.
He said that the patient is recovering well after the surgery and has been shifted to the ward.
“We have achieved an important milestone by starting minimally invasive surgeries here, which will greatly benefit patients through faster recovery and better treatment outcomes,” he added.
Dr Sheikh Sajad further said that this is only the beginning and many more advanced procedures will be introduced in the coming days.
“We are working with a vision to enhance patient care services and contribute with full capacity in providing comprehensive healthcare facilities under one roof,” he said.
While congratulating the Department of Surgery for the achievement, Principal/Dean KMCH, Prof. Dr Nazir Ahmad Khan, lauded the efforts of the surgical team and reiterated the institution’s commitment towards excellence in healthcare.
Prof. Nazir said the maiden Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy is a landmark achievement for the KMCH and for the healthcare services in Jammu and Kashmir.
He said KMCH is focused on providing cutting edge technology, quality, affordable and accessible healthcare services, particularly for the middle-class population.
Prof. Nazir said the institution is committed to bringing transformative changes in the healthcare sector and continuously improving patient care facilities in the region.
In his message to the public, he said that with laparoscopic surgeries are now available at KMCH, patients will no longer need to travel longer distances or wait for long durations for such procedures.
“Patients can now avail advanced laparoscopic treatment here with shorter waiting times and better convenience,” he said.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is considered the preferred and standard treatment for symptomatic gallstones as it offers faster recovery, less post-operative pain and smaller scars compared to conventional open surgery. The procedure involves the use of a camera (laparoscope) and specialized instruments to safely remove the gallbladder.
